Originally published in Lake of the Woods Area News, Volume 55, Number 3, Summer 2025
Lake of the Woods, its geography, and communities on its shores have a fascinating history. This history is comprised of families, people, businesses, industry and stories. Those of us that have been fortunate to make Lake of the Woods part of our lives, be it as a permanent, seasonal or part-time resident, or visitor have a passion and appreciation for “the Lake”, its wildlife, spectacular natural setting, and all the area has to offer.
In 1985, residents of Sioux Narrows put their passion to work and collected stories from residents both past and present. The goal was to put down in writing the history of our community and the region it has served since its beginning in the early 1930’s and before. The Sioux Narrows history book entitled Beyond the Bridge was a labour of love led by the Sioux Narrows Historical Committee who wanted to create a lasting record of our community and its people. The title of course refers to the historic Sioux Narrows Bridge that has been an iconic landmark on Lake of the Woods for almost 90 years. The bridge has been essential for the development and success of this area by providing a transportation link for residents, visitors, vacationers and commerce. We also owe a debt of gratitude to the Indigenous people who have stewarded the land and waters long before the arrival of visitors and the bridge.
What began as a desire get the community involved in recording our history became a book of over 400 pages and a community driven initiative that is a source of pride and a link to our past. Since its printing in 1985, Beyond the Bridge has been an essential source of information about the community. For many residents, it has become an indispensable reference when recalling the past, their neighbours, and those that have developed our community.
In 2024, a group of new community “historians” began to reflect on the fact that 2025 was the 40th anniversary of the publishing of Beyond the Bridge. Given the importance of the first book to the community and a desire to carry on the good work of the previous Historical Committee, it was decided that we would move forward with a new and updated printing. This new book, Beyond the Bridge II, honours the work of the original committee and community authors of
40 years ago.
The sequel provides current and past residents with an opportunity to share their memories of a truly special community and be included in the ongoing record of its history. The main team of ten people who are leading the development of the book have now been joined by over 50 “Road Captains” who have signed on to assist with the coordination of input from residents on the roads and islands in their vicinity. There is bound to be more volunteers, authors, and amateur historians that will join us during the assembly of the new book.
Beyond the Bridge II is beginning to gain incredible momentum just as the original did. We are inviting anyone who has memories of Sioux Narrows and a desire to add to its historical record to connect with us. To learn more about Beyond the Bridge II, how you can get involved, or add your story to its history, please join the conversation in our Facebook group beyondthebridge2 or connect with us by email at BeyondTheBridge2@gmail.com.
